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17.05.25(Sat) - 10.09.25(Wed) |
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Various venues |
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Chinese Opera
Chinese Opera Festival 2025
ForewordOpening Programme - China National Peking Opera CompanyHenan Provincial Yue Diao Art Protection and Inheritance CenterXi’an Performing Arts Group’s Youth Experimental Troupe of Qinqiang OperaXiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of ShaoxingCantonese Opera Zhou Yu Thrice Humiliated and The Battle at ChangbanpoZhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe)Meet-the-ArtistsTalks, Masterclasses, Backstage Tour and Demonstration PerformanceChinese Opera Film ShowsChinese Culture Festival Booking GuideExhibitionOnline Registration
The Chinese Opera Festival 2025, returning as a core programme of the second Chinese Culture Festival, will celebrate timeless Three Kingdoms tales through a variety of operatic genres. Witness renowned art groups present their signature repertoires on stage featuring legendary figures and immerse yourself in the cultural splendour and dramatic storytelling of traditional Chinese opera through the meticulously curated programme!
Opening Programme - China National Peking Opera Company
Masters of Heritage Charting Tomorrow's Vision
Introduction
Principal artists Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu will lead an ensemble of outstanding Peking Opera performers in presenting three Peking Opera masterpieces. A new historical Peking Opera Cession for Consolidation of the Song Regime portrays how the King of Wuyue submits his territory to the Song dynasty for the greater welfare of his people. The impressive cast will also perform the classic tales from Romance of the Three Kingdoms, showcasing the enduring beauty of the vocal style. The widely beloved classic The Legend of the White Snake masterfully balances singing and acting as well as civil and martial elements, making for a captivating experience for the audience.
Programme Details
20/6 7:30pm
A New Historical Peking Opera – Cession for Consolidation of the Song Regime
Main Cast : Yu Kuizhi, Li Shengsu, Wang Yue, Du Zhe, Hu Bin, Chu Fengyi, Chen Xuzhi, Wang Jue, Ma Xiangfei, et al.
Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
The story takes place during the early Northern Song dynasty when the Latter Tang and Song regimes are contending for land. The King of Wuyue, Qian Chu, faces a pivotal decision that will shape the destiny of his realm and people.
Two years in the making, this innovative historical drama presented by the China National Peking Opera Company vividly recreates the late Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. With a complete ensemble of traditional role types, the opera piece portrays Qian Chu’s deference to historical tides and his allegiance to rightful rule. This epic masterpiece features Peking Opera maestros Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu as King Qian Chu and his consort, Lady Sun Taizhen, delivering scene after scene of nuanced emotional performances. The grand finale is marked by a monumental painting of China’s breathtaking landscape, kept intact through the lofty vision of a wise king who valued his people, pursued peace and stability — a vivid demonstration of the communal spirit pertaining to the Chinese national identity.
21/6 7:30pm
A Meeting of Heroes, Invoking the East Wind and The Huarong Pass
Main Cast : Yu Kuizhi, Du Zhe, Hu Bin, Wang Yue, Guo Zhufeng, Wang Jue, Ma Xiangfei, Guo Xiaolei, Wei Jiaqing, et al.
Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In the world of Peking Opera, there is a saying that ‘there are no minor roles in the epic episodes of A Meeting of Heroes, Invoking the East Wind and The Huarong Pass.’ Drawn from Romance of the Three Kingdoms — a timeless classic known to all, these episodes bring to life the legendary Battle of Red Cliff.
Featuring a rich cast of historical figures, the stage teems with unforgettable personalities — from the noble elder statesman Lu Su, the brilliant strategist Zhuge Liang and the proud young general Zhou Yu to the formidable warlord Cao Cao, the fearless Zhao Yun and the awe-inspiring Guan Yu. Their thrilling clash of wits unfolds with dramatic intensity, showcasing iconic episodes that promise an unmissable theatrical feast of centuries-old artistry.
22/6 7:30pm
The Legend of the White Snake
Main Cast : Li Shengsu / Zhu Hong (as Bai Suzhen), Guo Zhufeng, Dai Zhongyu, Hu Bin, Wang Jue, Jiang Qize, Zheng Gaolu, Wei Pengyu, Wang Xuesong, et al.
The role of Bai Suzhen will be co-played by Li Shengsu and Zhu Hong. Zhu Hong will perform in Stealing the Herb, Demanding the Release of Her Husband, and Fighting on the Water.
Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
The Peking Opera The Legend of the White Snake, written by famous playwright Tian Han and originally directed by renowned Chinese opera director Li Zigui, has been refined on stage for over 60 years. It has become an essential repertoire for generations of dan (female) role performers. Li Shengsu, a renowned exponent of the Mei (Lanfang) School, has preserved and passed down the artistry to rising star Zhu Hong. Together, they will share the lead role as Bai Suzhen (Lady White Snake) in this restaged repertoire, perfectly embodying the character’s unwavering devotion to her forbidden mortal love.
In At the Lake, Bai Suzhen share an idyllic moment with Xu Xian as love blooms during a boat trip. Fighting on the Water is a stunning spectacle as numerous flags are wavered to simulate the water that floods the Jinshan Temple. On Broken Bridge brings out Bai’s woes and heartbreak over her husband’s distrust of her love, immersing the audience in a breathtaking dreamscape of scenic West Lake.
Programme of HKICH Month
Henan Provincial Yue Diao Art Protection and Inheritance Center
The Shen School Thrives as its Yuediao Vocals Flow with Grace and Elegance
Introduction
The 'Three Kingdoms' repertory of Yuediao Opera stands out among regional opera forms for its distinctive feature of casting female actors in xusheng (bearded male) roles. Shen Xiaomei, the first Yuediao performer to receive the China Theatre Plum Blossom Award, carries forward the artistic legacy of Shen Fengmei, whose unique style established the Shen School of performance. She excels in portraying Zhuge Liang, the legendary strategist known for his composure in adversity, capturing his intellectual essence through nuanced singing and expressive interpretation. The troupe is bringing in two acclaimed productions: the epic historical drama Jiang Wei Surrenders and the bittersweet comedy Li Tianbao Gets Married.
Programme Details
27/6 7:30pm
Jiang Wei Surrenders
Main Cast: Shen Xiaomei, Hu Hongbo, Nie Lei, Zhao Yanlin, Li Qiaorong
Theatre, Hong Kong City Hall
Jiang Wei Surrenders vividly reenacts a pivotal moment in the Three Kingdoms tales, when Zhuge Liang, prime minister and strategist of Shu, recognises the extraordinary talent of young general Jiang Wei of the opponent side and cleverly persuades him to join his ranks.
The protagonist Zhuge Liang is played by Shen Xiaomei, a Yuediao virtuoso and exponent of the Shen School. She plays the xusheng (bearded male) role with a commanding presence and sings in a deep, resonant voice with crisp enunciation. In the sixth scene, in the aria which is the highlight of the opera, Zhuge sways Jiang Wei's loyalty with a game-changing persuasive piece. The moment is a testament to Shen's mastery as the first Plum Blossom Award winner in the Yuediao genre. Nie Lei's portrayal of Jiang Wei captures the young warrior's inner turmoil, especially in the poignant line, 'Defeat has left me utterly ashamed', which lays bare his conflict between duty and ambition. Against a backdrop of war and shifting allegiances, the dynamic between Zhuge Liang's far-sighted leadership and Jiang Wei's martial prowess immerses the audience in a dramatic retelling of history. A true Yuediao classic, Jiang Wei Surrenders masterfully blends history, heroism, and artistry.
28/6 7:30pm
Li Tianbao Gets Married
Main Cast: Shen Xiaomei, Liu Zhiyou, Zhao Yanlin, Zhang Xiping, Sun Qianqian
Theatre, Hong Kong City Hall
Breaking away from the traditionally solemn tone of Yuediao, Li Tianbao Gets Married delivers a light-hearted and witty story. Zhang Zhongshi, a wealthy man who falsely claims his daughter, Fengjie, has died to escape an arranged marriage. When the prospective son-in-law, Li Tianbao, arrives to mourn her supposed passing, an unexpected series of comedic mishaps ensues.
Yuediao master Shen Xiaomei and disciple Zhao Yanlin bring Li Tianbao to life on stage with seamless chemistry. Their portrayal of Li captures his innocence and quick wit, while Liu Zhiyou's elaborate gestures and sharp-tongued delivery vividly portray the greedy scoundrel Zhang Zhongshi.
The repertoire's highlight comes in the fourth scene, where Li rushes to pay his respects to his 'deceased' fiancée. In over a hundred lines of lyrical storytelling, he mournfully recounts their love, blending sorrow with comedy. Shen's unique tragicomic singing technique enhances the scene's emotional depth, leaving the audience intrigued and captivated. Masterfully weaving farcical situations with traditional Chinese opera elements, Li Tianbao Gets Married stands as an enduring classic of Yuediao comedy.
Programme of HKICH Month
Xi'an Performing Arts Group's Youth Experimental Troupe of Qinqiang Opera
Raw and Resonant: Chinese Opera's Electrifying Voice
Introduction
Qinqiang, also known as luantan , is one of the most representative opera genres of Xi'an. Its singing style features wide vocal ranges and resounding tones, while retaining an intricate tonal delicacy. The genre's direct and intense emotional expression and the resonant, soaring vocals never fail to touch the audience. This programme features National Class One performers and Plum Blossom Award winners, showcasing the classic piece Returning to Jingzhou based on the plot of Romance of the Three Kingdoms . The production portrays thrilling power struggles in an awe-inspiring spectacle. Equally compelling is Zhou Ren on the Way Home , coined as one of the 'Eight Great Libretti of Qinqiang'.
Programme Details
4/7 7:30pm
Returning to Jingzhou
Returning to Jingzhou, also named A Right Royal Match, tells the story during the Three Kingdoms period, weaving a plot around a marriage deception that turns real, tactfully combining political intrigue with elements of romance. The narrative is tightly woven and peppered with humour. A stellar cast, complete with the four pillar roles of sheng (male), dan (female), jing (painted face), and chou (clown), delivers meticulous singing, reciting, acting, and martial arts feats in a classic showcase of Qinqiang artistry amidst the resonant rhythms of bangzi. Plum Blossom Award winners performing in this repertoire include Qi Aiyun, one of the ‘Four Famous Dan Actresses’ of Qinqiang. She will deliver a nuanced portrayal of Sun Shangxiang, a sweet yet strong independent woman. In the scene Farewell to Mother, she bids a tearful goodbye to Lady Wu, played by Qu Qiaozhe. Their seamless vocal interplay poignantly conveys to the audience the complex struggle between familial bonds and righteous duty. In addition, the role of Zhou Yu, the strategist whose ‘brilliant plans bring peace to the nation’, is performed by the popular young actor Zhang Tao, whose captivating arias and exceptional martial arts skills in the scene Zhou Yu the Marshal are not to be missed.
Main Cast: Qi Aiyun, Wang Xincang, Qu Qiaozhe, Zhi Zhaofei, Zhang Tao, Deng Wen, Sun Yadong, Tan Jianxun, Wang Xin
5/7 7:30pm
Zhou Ren on the Way Home
Zhou Ren on the Way Home is one of the famous ‘Eight Great Libretti of Qinqiang’. The story is set against the backdrop of power struggles during the Ming dynasty, where righteousness and loyalty stand out. An intricate plot with many twists and turns portrays characters with stunning psychological insight. Two Plum Blossom Award winners alternate in the role of the protagonist, each demonstrating remarkable feats: Wang Xincang uses a piercingly sorrowful singing style, combined with masterly skills like ‘headgear shaking’ and ‘hair twirling’, to depict the despair and inner conflict of sacrificing his wife to save a friend in the scenes Regrets on the Road and On His Way Home; while Tan Jianxun, with his distinctive vocalise passages, delivers a high-flung, emotionally charged performance. The play reaches its climactic moments in A Torture Session and Weeping at the Tomb, which pose significant challenges to the actors’ comprehensive skills. Dou Fengqin, acclaimed as ‘Golden Voice’, portrays Zhou Ren's wife, Li Lanying, a loyal and righteous woman who disguises herself to assassinate the evil-doer’s son, ultimately sacrificing herself. Her uniquely robust yet melodious singing style embodies a perfect blend of strength and feminine delicacy in a heart-wrenching performance.
Main Cast: Wang Xincang / Tan Jianxun (as Zhou Ren), Dou Fengqin, Qi Aiyun, Zhang Tao, Zhang Wuhong, Deng Wen, Sun Yadong
Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe of Shaoxing
A Stellar Cast Fusing Literary Grace and Martial Splendour
Introduction
In Yue Opera, the handsome xiaosheng (young male role) played by female actors can be akin to the well-loved male idols of popular television series. Among the veterans, Wu Fenghua, two-time winner of the China Theatre Plum Blossom Award, is an exemplary figure commanding both talent and skills. The Peacock Flies Southeast, dubbed the 'Chinese Romeo and Juliet', offers a touching reinterpretation of love and loss. The Aloeswood Fan is a delightful take on the classic scholar-and-beauty genre. The finale, Mu Guiying Takes Command, combines crisp martial arts moves with graceful operatic vocals to showcase the refined artistry of Yue Opera.
Programme Details
18/7 7:30pm
The Peacock Flies Southeast
Main Cast: Wu Fenghua, Chen Fei, Pan Qin, Yu Weiping
Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre
19/7 7:30pm
The Aloeswood Fan
Main Cast: Wu Fenghua, Wu Suying
Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre
20/7 7:30pm
Mu Guiying Takes Command
Main Cast: Wu Fenghua, Chen Fei
Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre
Cantonese Opera Zhou Yu Thrice Humiliated and The Battle at Changbanpo
Traditional Cantonese Opera Classics in Southern and Northern Xiqu Art Skills
Introduction
Under the artistic direction of renowned virtuoso Yuen Siufai, audiences will be brought back to the Three Kingdoms era of fierce rivalry. Zhou Yu Thrice Humiliated gives an indepth look at the battle of wits and strategy between lord Zhou Yu and general Zhuge Liang. The Battle at Changbanpo has a cast that covers the full range of role types. The fierce battles involving Cao Cao, Liu Bei, and Lu Bu showcase the solid martial art training of the Southern School and the ingeniously configured group combats characteristic of the Northern School. These powerful battle scenes are definitely a feast for the eyes. These two productions bring together some of the finest Cantonese Opera talents across three generations to showcase the enduring legacy of Cantonese Opera artistry.
Programme Details
26/7 7:30pm
Zhou Yu Thrice Humiliated
Main Cast: Yuen Siu-fai, Lee Lung, Wan Fai-yin, Wan Yuk-yu, Ho Wai-ling, Tam Wing-lun, Alan
Auditorium, Sha Tin Town Hall
27/7 7:30pm
The Battle at Changbanpo
Main Cast: Lee Lung, Yuen Siu-fai, Wan Fai-yin, Wan Yuk-yu, Ho Wai-ling, Tam Wing-lun, Alan
Auditorium, Sha Tin Town Hall
Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe)
The Lilting Kunqu Tunes Shape a Legendary Chapter in Chinese Operatic History
Introduction
In 1956, the Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe adapted the traditional play Dream of Two Bears into Fifteen Strings of Cash . The story centres on a mysterious murder case triggered by fifteen strings of copper coins, unfolding a battle of wits and intricate deductions. Departing from Kunqu 's traditional focus on young male and female leads, this production highlights the confrontation between a clever rogue and a shrewd magistrate, with chou (comic) and laosheng (old male) as key roles. Equally unmissable is the classic Kunqu comedy The Lioness Roars , which humorously depicts the marital battle of wits between the scholar Chen Jichang and his formidable wife Madam Liu. The programme will also feature five classic Kunqu excerpts, perfectly blending literary elegance with dynamic stagecraft.
Programme Details
15/8 7:30pm
Fifteen Strings of Cash
Main Cast: Bao Chen, Tian Yang, Xiang Weidong, Xu Ni, Wang Wenhui, Wang Hengtao, Hu Linan
Auditorium, Ko Shan Theatre New Wing
16/8 7:30pm
The Lioness Roars
Main Cast: Zeng Jie, Hu Ping, Bao Chen
Auditorium, Ko Shan Theatre New Wing
17/8 2:30pm
Traditional Opera Excerpts The Celestial Place from The Dream of Nanke, Cancelling the Birthday Celebrations from The Pavilion of Chanting in the Wind, Rendezvous at the Pavilion from Red Pear Blossom, Entrusting His Son from The Beauty Washing Silk by the River, Fighting on the Water from Leifeng Pagoda
Main Cast: Wu Xinyi, Xi Bingqi, Hu Linan, Li Qiongyao, Bao Chen, Wang Jing, Wang Hengtao, Wang Wenhui, Xiang Weidong, Zhang Kankan, Xu Ni, Ni Runzhi, Zhang Tangxiao, Tian Yang, Huang Yi
Auditorium, Ko Shan Theatre New Wing
19/6（ Thu）7:30pm
The Legacy and Development of Peking Opera
Speakers: Yu Kuizhi, Li Shengsu
Moderator: Hu Guangming
Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In Putonghua and Cantonese
26/6（ Thu）7:30pm
The Signature Singing Style and Vocal Techniques of the Shen School in Henan Yuediao
Speakers: Shen Xiaomei, Liu Zhiyou, Hu Hongbo, Zhao Yanlin, Nie Lei
Moderator: Chan Chun-miu
Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In Putonghua and Cantonese
3/7（Thu）7:30pm
The Beauty of Qinqiang Opera
Speakers: Ma Youxian, Qi Aiyun, Wang Xincang, Zhang Tao
Moderator: Chan Chun-miu
Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In Putonghua and Cantonese
17/7（Thu）7:30pm
Timeless Appeal: The Legacy and Evolution of Yue Opera
Speakers: Wu Fenghua, Wu Suying, Chen Fei, Yu Weiping
Moderator: Chan Chun-miu
Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In Putonghua and Cantonese
24/7（ Thu）7:30pm
Pre-performance Talk on the Cantonese Opera Zhou Yu Thrice Humiliated and The Battle at Changbanpo
Speakers: Yuen Siu-fai, Lee Lung, Wan Fai-yin
Moderator: Barbara Tang
Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In Cantonese
14/8（ Thu）7:30pm
Six Generations of Kunqu Performers: The Sustaining Growth of the Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe
Speakers: Gu Jiong, Bao Chen, Zeng Jie, Hu Ping, Tian Yang
Moderator: Chan Chun-miu
Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In Putonghua and Cantonese
Free admission. Limited seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. Online registration is required.
Talks on the Art of Kunqu Opera*
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Speaker: Cheung Lai-chun Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre In Cantonese |
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18/5 (Sun) 2:30pm |
Appreciation of Fifteen Strings of Cash In 1956, the Zhejiang Guofeng Suzhou Opera and Kunqu Troupe performed Fifteen Strings of Cash in Beijing. It was adapted from The Dream of Two Xiong Brothers and tells the story of Lou the Rat, who has committed murder for money, and the case leads to further violations of justice. The performance won the praise of Premier Zhou Enlai, who described it as an exemplary adaptation of a classical play. Later, playwright Tian Han wrote an editorial in People’s Daily titled On "A Play That Revived a Theatrical Genre", which cemented Fifteen Strings of Cash as a landmark piece in the modern history of Kunqu. |
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25/5 (Sun) 2:30pm |
Appreciation of Kneeling by the Pond from The Lioness Roars and Rendezvous at the Pavilion from Red Pear Blossom There is a famous line from a poem by Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, to his friend Chen Jichang: “I heard the sudden roar of the lioness from Hedong; I dropped my staff and my mind went blank.” It is a borrowing of a Buddhist allusion that describes the voice expounding the Dharma as a lion’s roar, so powerful that it leads to great enlightenment. In the Ming dynasty, Wang Tingna drew inspiration from this reference and wrote The Lioness Roars, a chuanqi play that humourously portrays the henpecked scholar Chen Jichang, and even introduces Su Dongpo into the plot. The excerpt Kneeling by the Pond features a series of escalating conflicts among Chen, his wife née Liu, and Su Dongpo, making for a performance rich in dramatic tension and comedic fun. The Ming playwright Xu Fuzuo’s The Story of the Red Pear Blossom is a chuanqi play that tells the love story of Zhao Ruzhou, a Northern Song scholar, and Xie Suqiu, a courtesan. Despite numerous trials and tribulations, and between laughter and tears, their love finally conquers all. In the excerpt Rendezvous at the Pavilion, Zhao Ruzhou, who is making a temporary stay at a friend’s house, takes a leisurely stroll in the garden one evening after drinking. Xie Suqiu secretly visits him but pretends to be the daughter of the garden’s owner, Prefect Wang. This scene is famous for its elegant interplay of singing and acting by the male and female leads, which makes up a performance that is both visually and artistically captivating. |
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1/6 (Sun) 2:30pm |
Appreciation of Entrusting His Son from The Beauty Washing Silk by the River and Cancelling the Birthday Celebrations from The Pavilion of Chanting in the Wind In this excerpt Entrusting His Son, King Fuchai of Wu has just won the war with the State of Yue. In his complacent state of mind, he falls victim to the schemes of Wen Zhong and Fan Li, allowing Goujian to return to his own state. Later, Fuchai recklessly plans a military campaign against Qi, oblivious to the peril it poses to his kingdom. The loyal minister Wu Zixu, determined to remonstrate even at the cost of his own life, takes steps to preserve his family lineage. He brings his son, Wu Feng, to Qi and entrusts him to Bao Mu, a high-ranking Qi official and his sworn brother. He orders his son to acknowledge Bao Mu as his father. Torn between loyalty to his ruler and familial bonds, this scene of a father and son’s heartrending farewell is deeply moving and profoundly tragic. In this excerpt Cancelling the Birthday Celebrations, Kou Zhun hosts a lavish banquet to celebrate his birthday as an ostentation of his status. When a servant fails to complete his assigned task properly, Kou gets into a fit and orders his execution. At that moment, an elderly maid is heard weeping in the corridor, and Kou summons her to explain. She tearfully recounts the hardships endured by his widowed mother as she struggled to raise him alone. Yet, just as Kou attained high rank and prosperity, she died from a long illness. All her life, she had never tasted the sweetness of a comfortable life. On hearing this, Kou is overcome with guilt and remorse. He realizes his folly and decides to cancel the banquet. |
Talks on the Culture of Chinese Opera*
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Speaker: Lum Man-yee Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre In Cantonese |
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8/6 (Sun) 2:30pm |
Staging 'Three Kingdoms' stories: from Southern Operas of the Song and Yuan Periods to Regional Operas of Today The tumultuous time of the Three Kingdoms in ancient China – Wei, Shu, and Wu – lasted 97 years, from 184 to 280 CE. It was a period of fierce rivalries, disintegration of a regime, and an explosion of intellectual freedom. The chasm and dynamic shifts gave rise to several legendary figures, such as Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Zilong, Zhuge Liang, Sun Quan, Zhou Yu, Cao Cao, Dong Zhuo, Lü Bu, Ma Chao and many more. Their dramatic lives have fueled the imagination of many Chinese opera playwrights. This year’s Chinese Opera Festival has a central theme, which is on the Three Kingdoms, and the performing troupes offer interpretations across four major regional styles. This talk series begins with an overview of operas based on Three Kingdoms stories from the Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing, and contemporary periods. It then delves deeper into two key perspectives on Chinese opera culture: first, how adaptations and redemptive reinterpretations of Three Kingdoms tales in the Ming and Qing dynasties reflect the operatic tradition of expressing emotion and resolving injustice; and two, how portrayals of Guan Yu in Peking Opera and Cantonese Opera highlight the theatricality and ritualistic elements of Chinese traditional theatre. |
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15/6 (Sun) 2:30pm |
Heroic Women Playing Middle-aged Men: the 'bearded male' Cross-dressing Roles in Yuediao Opera of Henan and Qinqiang Opera of Shaanxi In Chinese opera, the xusheng—or “bearded male” role—traditionally represents dignified middle-aged or elderly men. For female actors, taking on these roles is not only a formidable artistic challenge, but also an opportunity to create distinct and compelling stage personae that challenge conventional gender boundaries. One such pioneering figure is Shen Fengmei of the Henan Provincial Yue Diao Art Protection and Inheritance Center. Her portrayal of the strategist Zhuge Liang had won widespread acclaim and led to the formation of the influential Shen stylistic school. This year’s Chinese Opera Festival spotlights this unique tradition with a Yuediao production of Jiang Wei Surrenders, starring Shen Xiaomei, an exponent of Shen Fengmei’s legacy. On a similar vein with female actors in transvestite roles is Zhou Ren on His Way Home, a classic from Shaanxi Qinqiang opera. Originally performed by laosheng (old male) roles without wearing the long beard, it was later changed to xiaosheng (young male) actors. This talk begins with a brief introduction on the historical evolution and artistic features of the two genres, Yuediao of Henan and Qinqiang of Shaanxi. Then we will explore Shen Fengmei’s revolutionary impact on female laosheng performance and the emergence of her artistic style. This is followed by a discussion on the female laosheng role in Qinqiang and how the female actors embody their transvestite roles on stage. |
Talks on the Three Kingdoms Opera*
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Speaker: Yuen Siu-fai Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre In Cantonese |
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17/5 (Sat) 2:30pm |
Character Portrayal in Staging 'Three Kingdoms' Stories: Zhuge Liang and Jiang Wei |
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24/5 (Sat) 2:30pm |
On the Adaptation of Stories from the 'Three Kingdoms' for the Stage - With Examples from Excerpts and Full-Length Plays |
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31/5 (Sat) 2:30pm |
On the Strategic Plots: Invoking the East Wind and Returning to Jingzhou |
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7/6 (Sat) 2:30pm |
Stories from the 'Three Kingdoms': From History and Literature to Traditional Theatre |
Backstage Tour - China National Peking Opera Company*
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21/6（Sat）3:30pm Venue: Backstage, Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre In Putonghua with Cantonese interpretation |
Demonstration Performance of Peking Opera
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22/6（Sun）3:30pm China National Peking Opera Company Extracts of Chasing the Boat on the Autumn River Performers: Zhang Xinxin, Wang Xuesong Venue: Foyer, Hong Kong Cultural Centre |
Free admission.
Talks and Masterclasses of Kunqu Opera*
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Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) In Putonghua |
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14/8 (Thu) 2pm |
The Crafting of Dan (Female) Roles in Kunqu Master: Hu Ping Moderator: Chan Chun-miu Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre |
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14/8 (Thu) 4pm |
The Crafting of Sheng (Male) Roles in Kunqu Master: Zeng Jie Moderator: Chan Chun-miu Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre |
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18/8 (Mon) 5pm |
Kunqu Classics as a Living Tradition Speakers: Wu Xinyi, Wang Hengtao Moderator: Cheung Lai-chun Venue: Theatre, Block I, Jao Tsung-I Academy |
* Free admission. Limited seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. Online registration is required.
Chinese Opera Films
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Venue: Cinema, Hong Kong Film Archive Source and information provided by China Film Archive |
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9/7 (Wed) 7:30pm |
Peking Opera Invoking the East Wind (1957) The story is taken from Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and traces the strategic confrontations among Zhuge Liang of Shu, Zhou Yu of Wu, and Cao Cao of Wei. Zhou and General Huang Gai stage a ruse in which Huang pretends to defect to Wei, with an intent to lower Cao Cao’s defences and execute a fire attack. Cao is suspicious of the surrender and dispatches Jiang Gan to investigate. Upon arriving in Eastern Wu, Jiang Gan is deceived by Zhou Yu and Pang Tong into believing there is internal strife. Reporting back, he convinces Cao Cao that Eastern Wu poses no real threat and they can easily win. As the planned fire attack hinges on favourable wind conditions, Zhou Yu becomes so worried that he falls gravely ill. Zhuge Liang successfully invokes the easterly wind, giving the Wu-Shu alliance the upper hand in battle. |
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30/7 (Wed) 7:30pm |
Peking Opera A Meeting of Heroes (1957) The story takes place during the last years of the Eastern Han dynasty. Warlords are in rivalry and after years of warfare and territorial expansion, the three kingdoms of Wei, Shu, and Wu emerge. To counter the powerful Wei under Cao Cao, Sun Quan of Wu and Liu Bei of Shu form an alliance. At Xiakou, strategists Zhuge Liang and Zhou Yu come together to resist Cao Cao’s advances. To spy on their coalition, Cao dispatches his adviser Jiang Gan to visit Zhou Yu under the guise of friendship, in the hope of persuading Zhou to surrender. But the perceptive and astute Zhou sees through the ruse. He organises a grand feast for civil and military elites and orders Ci the Grand Historian to keep close watch over the wine, leaving Jiang Gan no chance to act. Then he pretends to be drunk so Jiang thinks he can steal a forged letter of surrender. Jiang returns to Cao’s camp, but the letter incites suspicion and prompts Cao to execute several of his own generals, mistakenly believing there is treachery within his ranks. |
| 6/8 (Wed) 7:30pm |
Peking Opera The Sworn Brothers' Reunion at the Old City (1976) The story is taken from Romance of the Three Kingdoms, with a focus on the sworn brotherhood of Liu Bei, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei. Following Shu’s defeat by Wei, Guan is forced to surrender and seek temporary protection under Cao Cao. As a result, he and his sworn brothers become separated. Yet as soon as he learns of Liu Bei’s whereabouts, he immediately escapes from Cao’s camp and sets out to reunite with his sworn brothers. On hearing that Zhang Fei is stationed at the Old City, Guan rushes there, only to be met with suspicion. Zhang believes Guan has defected to Cao Cao and refuses to let him enter the city gate. Just when Guan tries to prove his loyalty, General Cai Yang of the Cao army arrives in pursuit. This makes Zhang even more suspicious and assumes Guan is leading enemy troops. To show his unwavering loyalty, Guan kills Cai Yang. Zhang realises his grave mistake and apologises. Liu Bei also steps in to reconcile the misunderstanding. The brothers are reunited. |
| 27/8 (Wed) 7:30pm |
Yuediao Opera Zhuge Liang Mourns Zhou Yu (1980) The story is taken from Romance of the Three Kingdoms. After forming an alliance to resist Cao Cao’s Wei, Sun Quan of Eastern Wu allows Liu Bei of Han to temporarily govern Jingzhou to recuperate and train his forces. But as a strategist of Wu, Zhou Yu views this with suspicion and concern. Determined to reclaim the territory, he leads troops to confront Liu Bei. His negotiations with Liu’s adviser, Zhuge Liang, prove fruitless, triggering a fierce battle in which Zhou suffers a crushing defeat. He retreats in humiliation and dies of grief at Baqiu. In the wake of his death, Sun Quan vows to avenge him. Zhuge Liang travels to Wu to attend Zhou Yu’s memorial. General Zhang Zhao lays an ambush around the mourning hall with the intent of capturing him. Undeterred, Zhuge Liang kneels and weeps before Zhou’s altar, and offers a eulogy that praises the latter’s many accomplishments. He then points out to Zhang that any strife between the states of Shu and Wu would only benefit Cao Cao, who still harbours vengeance for his defeat at Red Cliff. At that moment, news arrives that Cao is advancing with an army of hundreds of thousands. Realising the grave danger, Zhang quickly apologises to Zhuge and the two begin discussing a joint plan to repel the invasion. |
| 3/9 (Wed) 7:30pm |
Peking Opera The Goddess of Luo River (1955) Cao Pi crowns Lady Zhen as royal consort, though she does not return his affections. Instead, she is drawn to the literary brilliance of his younger brother, Cao Zhi, and the two begin a forbidden romance in the face of grave danger. On discovering Lady Zhen’s infidelity, he executes her in a fit of rage and banishes Zhi to the frontier. Years later, filled with remorse for his impulsive decision, Pi summons Zhi back and entrusts him with Lady Zhen’s treasured pillow of jade and gold trimmings. That night, Zhi dreams of a divine calling from the Goddess of River Luo. So the next day, he goes to the appointed place and is astonished to find Lady Zhen waiting for him. She has become the Goddess of River Luo, a celestial being, forever separated from the mortal realm. |
| 10/9 (Wed) 7:30pm |
Peking Opera The Battle at Changbanpo (1976) The story tells of the heroic feats of Zhao Yun (also known as Zhao Zilong) during Liu Bei’s chaotic retreat from Xinye. Pursued by Cao Cao’s forces through the night at Changbanpo, Liu becomes separated from his troops and family. Undaunted, Zhao Yun charges into the enemy camp alone, braving perilous encounters to rescue the local governors Jian Yong and Mi Zhu. He battles his way through countless soldiers, and fights valiantly to protect Lady Gan and Liu Bei’s infant son, A Dou, leading them safely through the encirclement. Later generations would immortalise this act of courage in verse: |
Cantonese Opera Films
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Venue: Lecture Hall, Hong Kong Space Museum Courtesy of Hong Kong Film Archive |
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31/5 (Sat) 7:45pm |
How Hung Ming Thrice Defeated Chow Yu (1956) Zhuge Liang, the prime minister and strategist of the State of Shu, is entrusted with a diplomatic mission to the State of Eastern Wu to persuade General Zhou Yu to form an alliance against the State of Wei. But Zhou is envious of Zhuge’s acumen and brilliance, and repeatedly schemes to make things difficult for him. Later, after Shu seizes control of Jingzhou, Zhou attempts various stratagems to reclaim the territory, all of which are cleverly thwarted by Zhuge. Coupled with repeated military defeats, Zhou dies of frustration and despair. |
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14/6 (Sat) 7:45pm |
The Beauty of the Warring States (1959) The story is adapted from the historical account of Jing Ke’s attempt to assassinate the King of Qin during the Warring States period. The King of Qin dispatches General Fan Yuqi to the State of Yan to invite Crown Prince Dan and his consort to Qin. But on their arrival, the King breaks his promise and imprisons them instead. Wracked with guilt for his role in the betrayal, Fan helps the royal couple escape successfully. Infuriated, the King launches an assault on Yan on a false claim. Crown Prince Dan is at his wit’s end, so when the courtier Tian Guang recommends the valiant warrior Jing Ke to him to go to Qin on a fatal mission to assassinate the tyrant, the prince accepts. |
| 12/7 (Sat) 7:45pm |
Luck Sun (1957) Cao Cao covets the beauty of Lady Zhen, as do his sons Cao Pi and Cao Zhi. Lady Zhen is impressed by Pi’s boldness and valour, and Zhi’s literary brilliance. But upon discovering Pi’s petty and narrow-minded nature, she gradually distances herself from him. Cao Cao decrees that she is to marry Pi, making her a pawn in the political power struggle. Heartbroken, Zhi loses his creative spirit. After Cao Cao’s death, Pi ascends the throne. He holds a grudge against his younger brother so much that he believes rumours suggesting that Zhi is the father of his child with Lady Zhen. In a rage, he forces Lady Zhen to take poison and banishes Zhi to a remote land. The lovers are forced apart forever. |
| 30/8 (Sat) 7:45pm |
Lui Bo Captures Diu Sim (1956) Dong Zhuo holds sway in the imperial cour, and renders the young king a mere figurehead. Aided by the formidable warrior Lü Bu, the two tyrannise the court and cause suffering to the people. Concerned for the state, Minister Wang Yun devises a honey trap with his ward, the songstress Diao Chan. He hosts banquets separately for Dong and Lü, on each occasion promising them Diao’s hand. When Lü learns that the beauty has become Dong’s protégée, he confronts Wang Yun, who tells him that Dong has claimed her by force. Diao meets with Lü and begs him to rescue her by killing Dong. Lü hesitates. When Dong returns home, Diao tearfully reports to him that Lü had taken liberties with her, thus successfully turning the partners into enemies. |
Tickets will be available at URBTIX from 15 April onwards. (Unless otherwise specified for individual programmes)
Concessionary Tickets
Applicable to tickets for stage programmes, Chinese Opera Festival 2025: Chinese Opera Film Shows and Legacy and Vision: Conversations with Chinese Cultural Masters only
Half-price tickets are available for full-time students, senior citizens aged 60 or above, people with disabilities and the minder and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) recipients*. Tickets for CSSA recipients are available on a first come, first served basis. Concessionary ticket holders must produce evidence of their identity or age upon admission.
* Concessionary tickets of Grand Dance Poem A Dance of Celestial Rhythms by Hong Kong Dance Company are available on a first come, first served basis.
Group Booking Discount and Package Booking Discount #
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Phase 1: Limited-time offer 15 April 2025 10:00am to 30 April 2025 11:59pm |
Phase 2: From 1 May 2025 onwards |
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Group Booking Discount |
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Package Booking Discount |
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Exclusive Offer to Museum Pass Holders #
Museum Pass Holders can enjoy 10% off discount for each purchase of 1 or more standard ticket. Please present valid physical or electronic Museum Pass upon purchase tickets at URBTIX outlets.
# Group Booking Discount, Package Booking Discount and Exclusive Offer to Museum Pass Holders are not applicable to ticket purchase of International Arts Carnival 2025: Kungfu Drama Soul of Shaolin and Acrobatic Ballet Swan Lake, and Tan Dun│Tea: A Mirror of Soul by Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra.
Grand Dance Poem A Dance of Celestial Rhythms by Hong Kong Dance Company
For more discount details and enquiries: 3103 1888
Silken Notes of the Pipa by Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra
For more discount details and enquiries: 3185 1600
Tan Dun│Tea: A Mirror of Soul by Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra
For more discount details and enquiries: 2721 2332
Points to Note
- Patrons can enjoy only one of the above discount offers for each ticket purchased. Please inform the box office staff at the time of purchase.
- Each ticket admits one person only.
- The discount for full-time students is also applicable to children aged 6 and under.
- Ticket swapped on or after 1 May is no longer entitled to 'Limited-Time offer', but you may still enjoy other discount offers that are available at the time of swapping.
- Events will normally be cancelled when Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above, or the Black Rainstorm Warning is issued or remains in effect 3 hours before the event starts. Ticket holders are advised to visit www.ccf.gov.hk or to call 2268 7321 / 2268 7323 / 2268 7325 within normal office hours for details of programme schedule changes and refund arrangements.
- Members of the audience are strongly advised to arrive punctually. Latecomers and those who leave their seats during the performance will only be admitted and allowed to return to their seats respectively during the intermission or at a suitable break. The presenter reserves the right to refuse admission of latecomers, or determine the time and manner of admission of latecomers.
- The price of each discounted ticket will be rounded up to the nearest Hong Kong dollar.
- The box offices of Hong Kong Space Museum and Hong Kong Film Archive only provide counter sales service for film programmes scheduled at the venue. Ticket collection service is available at the Ticket Dispensing Machine in the venue.
- Please refer to each programme detail page for the counter booking dates of individual programmes.
- In the event of any dispute regarding these Terms and Conditions and all other matters relating to the discount scheme, the interpretation and decision of Leisure and Cultural Services Department shall be final and conclusive.
Patrons can purchase a maximum of 40 tickets per transaction. Tickets can be bought in the following ways, up to one hour before the performance, or at any time before the show starts, at the performance venue box office or self-service ticketing kiosks.
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Enquiries
Programme: 2268 7321 / 2268 7323 / 2268 7325 (Monday - Friday: 9am - 1pm, 2 - 6pm, closed on Saturdays, Sundays & public holidays)
Ticketing: 3166 1100 (10am–8pm daily)
Website: www.ccf.gov.hk (Programme) / www.urbtix.hk (Ticketing & Internet Booking)
‘Three Kingdoms in Chinese Opera’ Exhibition
The exhibition will illuminate the costumes and stage artistry of key characters from the Three Kingdoms period, showcasing performances across opera genres. Through this distinctive perspective, we will explore the stage performances centred around the 'Three Kingdoms' at the Chinese Opera Festival 2025, where the heroes shall assemble!
Exhibition Period: 27/5-7/6 (Tue - Sat)
Venue: Foyer Exhibition Area, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
Exhibition Period: 16/7-1/8 (Wed - Fri)
Venue: Exhibition Corner, Yuen Long Theatre
Free admission
TICKETING
DATE VENUE PRICE 17.05.2025 (Sat) - 10.09.2025 (Wed)
Various venues